A Reputation that Reflects a Love for God

A Reputation that Reflects a Love for God

Lanita Perez

"Boaz replied, “I’ve been told all about what you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband, how you left your father and mother and your homeland and came to live with a people you did not know before. May the Lord repay you for what you have done. May you be richly rewarded by the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge.” Ruth 2:11-12

How do others see you? What is your life telling others about who you are? I’ve often heard people say, “I don’t care what other people think. I’m going to do what I want no matter what.” As we mature in life we begin to see that what others think of us does matter. We want our spouse, children, co-workers and peers to be able to trust us and for our lives to have merit in the eyes of others. I’ve seen instances when people have strived to live carefree of what others thought of them and have developed a reputation of living selfishly. Then by the time they mature and make the necessary changes on how they conduct their lives their reputation is so tarnished it takes the rest of their lives to show others they’ve changed. No matter how hard they try to convince others they have changed for the better it is not believed by those who knew them best.

The way Ruth lived her life was a blessing to her and her mother-in-law. She was well thought of by many including Boaz. It is a very nice compliment having others think well of you, but there is nothing more amazing than living a life that pleases God. Ruth left everything behind including her family, friends and a way of life as she knew it. Naomi her mother-in-law had a reputation for a life that reflected dedication and love for God and it was so contagious Ruth decided to make Him her God; leaving everything behind. Ruth’s sacrifice cost her much, but in return God blessed her with so much more.

"But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."
Matthew 6:33

Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier.
Be the living expression of God’s kindnesses.
Kindness in your face,
Kindness in your eyes,
Kindness in your smile.Mother Theresa

What changes will you make in the way you live? How will others know that you have made your love for God and people your number one priority? What do you need to leave behind to cause your reputation to be what God approves of and what others would want to emulate?